Today’s designers must conquer many conflicting challenges. The products that they develop must differentiate themselves from the competition while simultaneously achieving similar objectives, such as energy efficiency and ease of use.
The winning entries in the 21st annual Excellence in Design competition are products that meet such demands. The designers behind the winning products have found a way to produce sophisticated technology that is intuitive to use, and presents itself with an eye-catching appearance.
Balancing the need for increased functionality without creating a level of complexity that confounds the user is a tough trick to pull off. Sometimes tradeoffs need to be made, and good designs are evidence of good decisions.
Most importantly, many of the winning products in this year’s competition tackle the time constraints faced by both consumers and professionals, who need to work smarter, better, and faster. Many of the winning entries employ a combination of high technology and well-thought-out usability features to meet those demands.
Entries for this year’s competition were slotted into one of several categories. Winning entries were recognized with a Gold, Silver, or Bronze award. The winners are not evenly distributed across categories because there was no predetermined number of awards established. The idea was to recognize excellent product designs, regardless of how many or few a given category produced.
An independent panel of three experts in the field of design evaluated the entries based on four criteria: aesthetics, human factors, innovation, and technical merits. Information on the judges can be found on page 20.
Twenty First Annual EID -- GOLD
Electronics GOLD
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The Tatung VOIP Phone from the Tatung Co., Tucheng, Taiwan, and its industrial design firm Nova Design Co. Ltd., Xizhi City, Taiwan
The Tatung VOIP phone is designed to be intuitive to use, especially for new users, children, and the elderly. The simplified user interface features a clear display keypad that has touch sensor operation that simplifies the function key and keypad. EID Juror Seth Orsborn called it a counterexample to the current ‘feature avalanche’ in most consumer products. “By only providing the necessary features, the interactions become intuitive and easy to accomplish,” he says.
The phone comes in a basic geometric shape with a square cutout that simplifies the form element and makes it easy to grab and carry. Rounded edges soften the phone’s appearance and enhance user comfort, according to the company. A sleek and retro style antenna appearance emphasizes its wireless nature, and, according to Orsborn, differentiates this from other similarly looking products.
Key players: Design team at Nova Design Co. Ltd.
Major Appliances/HVAC GOLD
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Nexxt Laundry from BSH Home Appliances, Huntington Beach, Calif.
Bosch’s Nexxt Laundry appliances use a combination of eco-friendly programs and settings that have been designed to exceed 2007 Energy Star standards. For instance, on select clothes washers a feature called ECOACTION decreases the temperature and amount of energy used during the wash cycle by up to 25 percent. Nexxt Dyers conserve energy with its Ecosensor feature, which uses less energy than conventional dryers by adjusting the temperature based on the moisture level in the clothes or fabrics. The dryer’s DUOTRONIC sensor detects the amount of moisture and adjusts the unit’s operation automatically to save energy and prevent damage from over-drying.
It also has several specific wash cycles to make the laundry pair easier to use. These cycles include KIDSCARE, which reaches 150 DegF to remove stains, and the XXTRAsanitary cycle, which sustains 170 DegF and removes 99.9 percent of bacteria. It also features a Quick Wash 25 cycle that will complete a 25-minute fast wash.
Key players: Bosch Home Appliances design team.
Major Appliances/HVAC GOLD
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Integra dishwasher from BSH Home Appliances, Huntington Beach, Calif.
The Bosch lineup of Integra dishwashers includes what the company calls the quietest and most energy efficient model in the country, the Integra SHX98. The premium model achieves a 42 dB sound level and exceeds the minimum federal energy standard by 147 percent, with yearly usage of only 190 kWh.
It features the ECOSENSE Wash Management System that examines the soil level in the water via an infrared light beam. A half-load option allows consumers to run the dishwasher half full, thus saving time, water and energy by 30 percent. The QUICKWASH feature offers an abbreviated 30-minute cycle for smaller loads or less soiled dishes. In all, it uses as little as 1.8 gallons of water per cycle.
The Integra collection has a concealed control panel. To communicate how to easily save on energy and efficiency, the company added a green-colored “e” button. By pressing the button, it automatically kicks into energy save mode. Juror Seth Orsborn says that the sleek finish and hidden controls are a nice addition to any modern kitchen. “Utilizing their technological prowess, Bosch developed a dishwasher that provides superior cleaning power while minimizing resource consumption,” he says.
Key players: Bosch Home Appliances design team.
Major Appliances/HVAC GOLD
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The Indesit Moon clothes washer from the Indesit Co., Fabriano, Italy, and its industrial design team Italdesign Giugiaro SpA, Moncalieri, Italy
The Indesit Moon clothes washing machine is an aesthetically pleasing, easy-to-use clothes washer that automatically adjusts the temperature and spin speed according to the wash cycle chosen, and optimizes consumption of water, time and energy according to the amount of washing. To help improve cleaning, an integrated soap dispenser was developed that delivers detergent directly into the heart of the wash, giving up to 50 percent more cleaning power than that of the typical detergent drawer, the company says. A sensor in the drum detects the presence of detergent through the alkalinity of the water and will automatically run up to two additional rinse cycles to rinse out the detergent. A load balancing system was designed that reduces vibration and noise. The controls have been simplified; users can choose the wash cycle by pressing one of 4 buttons.
The aesthetics are simple, yet remarkable, says juror Seth Orsborn. “The simplified controls remove all the redundant complexity while still giving you all the washing options you need. The sensing technology and innovative detergent holder are invisible insurance, which guarantee a clean wash with minimum resource usage.”
Key players: Design team at Indesit Co. Design team at Italdesign - Giugiaro SpA - Giugiaro Design.
Major Appliances/HVAC GOLD
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The KitchenAid® Architect® Series II built-in double-oven from Whirlpool Corp., Benton Harbor, Mich.
The advanced convection oven features steam-assisted cooking and can switch between convection and non-convection cooking with the Easy Convect temperature conversion system.
The product features a capacitive-touch glass control panel for easy navigation through a highly intuitive, user-focused interface. It opens to its full width and comes with a large viewing window, and an easy to clean glass inner wall.
The built-in oven follows what the company calls its core Architect Series II visual brand language. The language emphasizes functional purpose and material authenticity through subtle detailing. Surface transitions, for example, are treated with a simple chamfer to communicate a sense of order and logic. Badges, user interfaces and the product edges all include this chamfer to set themselves apart from the main body surfaces.
The handles, which were raised to better accommodate oven mitts, are simple, yet tightly controlled forms. The user interfaces follow a consistent pattern and color scheme. For instance, the key functions including the Start and Off functions, are highlighted in a light grey, while remaining buttons are dark grey.
Key Players: The KitchenAid Brand Studio team at Global Consumer Design, Whirlpool Corp.
Medical/Test & Measurement Equipment GOLD
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The Gendex expert DC Intraoral X-Ray System by KaVo Dental Corporation-Gendex Dental Systems, Des Plaines, Ill., and industrial design firm Cesaroni Design Associates Inc., Glenview, Ill.
The Gendex expert DC, an intraoral X-ray system, merges fresh and patient-friendly aesthetics with the latest advances in electronic technology for more accurate diagnosis. Care was taken to avoid the intimidating dental-equipment look of the existing unit. Patient comfort is increased by the open architectural forms. Backlit translucent controls, light colors and fresh graphics lend an emotional approachability as well. Unique controls offer twenty-one exposure settings, plus programmable anatomical presets and Quickset tubehead controls for ease of use and patient safety. Juror Seth Orsborn calls the integration of the control a “novel feature that should bring confidence to the patient.”
Key project players from KaVo Dental Corporation-Gendex Dental Systems: David Pettinato, mechanical engineer; Nimesh Bhagat, sr. product manager; and, Dmitry Edelchik, global product manager imaging; Cesaroni Design Associates Inc.: Bill Cesaroni, president, Morad Ghassemian, director product design and Melissa Gustafson, graphic designer.
Medical/Test & Measurement GOLD
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The Detecto-Pak Infrared gas detector from Heath Consultants Inc., Houston, Texas, and its industrial design firm Helix Design, Manchester, N.H.
The Detecto Pak-Infrared device is a portable device that detects if methane gas is leaking from distribution pipelines. It uses an infrared optical gas detection system that can make a distinction between methane and other gases and reduce the number of false alarms. The system eliminates the traditional Flame Ionization method that requires gas cylinders and refill systems.
Aesthetically, the unit combines rigid components with soft-touch molded elements. The elements include a silicone keypad interface that has been simplified with less buttons, a refined hierarchy, and oversized buttons for gloved operation.
Juror Seth Orsborn says that the system is a new technique for detecting gases and is a much-needed change in technology for this market. He adds that the aesthetics are a pleasant departure from the sheet metal tradition and the large, tactile buttons provide an easy interaction for the worker.
Key Players from Heath Consultants: Jim Rutherford, director of R&D; John Fisher, engineering supervisor. Helix Design: Joe Schappler, principal; A.K. Stratton, director of product development; Roy Whitson, project leader; Fernando Robert, designer; Chris Weiler, senior engineer.
Suppliers: Joe Doss, principal, Dynamic Plastics; Devin Asakura, Hanaco Manufacturing; Luke Janetos, principal, HRP Fabrication; Richard Hilliard, general manager-Metaltronics; Tony Lee, principal, Copesetic.
Medical/Test & Measurement Equipment GOLD
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The Tono-Pen Avia™ Applanation Tonometer from Reichert, Inc., Depew, N.Y., and the industrial design firm Metaphase Design Group, St. Louis, Mo.
The Tono-Pen Avia is an easy-to-use portable, handheld instrument that measures intraocular pressure – the fluid pressure inside the eye – to evaluate ocular conditions such as glaucoma. It is an alternative solution to the larger, bulky instruments, and allows the unit to be brought to the patient and used successfully with minimal training.
Through intensive user research, the design team explored ways to improve usability and reliability of the device by minimizing human error. Studies on grip postures, user technique and instrument ergonomics resulted in an intuitive design featuring a new size, form and grip architecture. The handle was shortened and optimized for virtually all hand sizes by creating a smooth curve with the center of gravity located in the primary grip zone. The width dimensions were expanded and soft elastomeric co-molding was added for thumb and forefinger placement, minimizing grip forces and increasing stability and comfort.
The unit features a stainless steel tip with a bead-blasted finish, a glossy white body finish and a blue elastomeric co-molding. To make it easier to use, two large LCDs were incorporated in the center with visibility from either side to ensure both left and right-handed users can effectively view the results in low-light conditions.
Key Players from Metaphase Design Group: Marc Hunter and Brian Bone, ergonomics; Jeff Feng and David Kusch, designers. Supplier: Craig Drager, vice president, R & D, Medtronic XOMED.
Outdoor/Leisure Appliances GOLD
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The X7 Elliptical Cross-Trainer by Life Fitness, Franklin Park, Ill. and the industrial design firm, Cesaroni Design Associates Inc., Glenview, Ill.
The X7 cross-trainer is a new consumer elliptical with electronic stride adjustments. For a more natural ellipse motion and comfortable workout, the oversized foot pedals are spaced 1.75-in. closer and flex as the user moves to absorb impact. Fluid electronic stride adjustments from 18 in. to 24 in. accommodate different sized users and target different muscle groups. Shortening and/or lengthening the stride offers a total-body workout with synchronized upper- and lower-body movement. Effort is dispersed to the arms and legs to burn more calories with less perceived exertion. Simplifying user activity while in motion, the design team developed a lower console, known as the Activity Zone. Easily accessible stride length and resistance level buttons are located on the Activity Zone, along with a built-in LCD display showing the stride length and resistance level, as well as the muscles currently being worked.
Key project players from Life Fitness: Steve Ward, director of industrial design; Tom Cray, industrial design manager; and, Rad Arceta, sr. industrial designer; Cesaroni Design Associates Inc.: Bill Cesaroni, president, and Christian Castro, project manager.
Small Appliances GOLD
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The One Touch Automatic Jar Opener from One Touch Products Ltd., Hong Kong, and its industrial design firm, and sister-company, Daka Research Inc., also of Hong Kong.
Billed as the world’s first automatic hands-free jar opener, the One Touch Jar Opener replaces cumbersome, electric openers and hard-to-use manual openers with a small, easy to use product. Powered by 2 AA batteries, it can open more than 50 jars with one charge.
Its gripping mechanism is one of its most innovative features. A human being using a manual opener will grip tighter when the grip slips; the patented mechanism mimics the action of a strong pair of hands by automatically balancing the grip with the required torque and continuing to open the jar. The unit can achieve a grip force of 45 kg (100 lbs).
The organic shape is designed tightly around the internal mechanical components including the motor, gears and batteries, so that it fits in a person’s hand and stores easily. The unit’s surface features a round, pebble texture that offers an easy grip. The jaws are clearly differentiated as contrasting, bold gripping elements. “The ease of use is promoted through a single button and obvious interaction between the jar and appliance,” says juror Seth Orsborn.
Key players from Daka Research Inc.: Pat Mah, chairman. MAS Design Products Limited: Mark Sanders, Director.
Twenty First Annual EID -- SILVER
Commercial/Vending Appliances SILVER
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The B3000 Keurig brewing System from Keurig Inc., Reading, Mass.
The B3000 brewing System is a single serve commercial brewer that can brew coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and dispense hot water for beverages or food.
It has two hot water tanks, a preheat tank and a brew tank, that help ensure back-to-back brewing every 60 seconds. It monitors water temperature and controls power distribution to maintain this feature.
The brewer can automatically puncture the portion pack and eject the used packet into a receptacle inside the brewer. Sensors indicate when the bin is full and ready to be emptied.
Key Players from Keurig Inc.: Richard Pasquini, director of brewer engineering; Ian Tinkler, v.p. of brewer engineering; Kevin Sullivan, v.p. of engineering and product development; David Manly, v.p. of marketing; John Phillips, product manager marketing; Geoff Smith, William Sawyer, senior engineers. Proteus Design: Paul Metaxatos, v.p. product development; Eric Nichols, senior designer product development; Tim Bragg, senior designer product development.
Commercial/Vending Appliances SILVER
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A.O. Smith Cyclone Xi commercial gas water heater from A.O. Smith, Ashland City, Tenn.
The Cyclone Xi (BTH 500) is a 130-gal. high-efficiency commercial gas water heater. The helical heat exchanger coil and pre-mix powered burner works by increasing the total amount of heat-transfer surface to generate 95 percent thermal efficiency. The glass-lined heat exchanger coil keeps the hot gases inside the BTH-500 longer. The top mounted, down-fire, pre-mix burner ignites the gas mixture and a swirling flame shoots downward into a submerged central combustion chamber. The resulting hot flue gases are then forced at high velocity up through the helical coil, which is surrounded by water. Using centrifugal force, the coil’s spiral shape keeps hot gases swirling to maximize energy transfer.
Key Players from A.O. Smith: Matt Schulz, product manager; David Chisolm, brand manager; John Niu, design engineer; Darryl Ruark, design engineer; Andrew Phillips and Andy Caves, electronics engineers.
Commercial/Vending Appliances SILVER
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Metro C5 3 Series Insulation Armour Heated Holding and Proofing Cabinets from InterMetro Industries Corp., Wilkes Barre, Pa.
These insulated cabinets are used in commercial kitchens to hold and transport hot food products prior to serving. With patent-pending Insulation Armour, the units provide thermal insulation meeting Energy Star requirements. The panels lower the exterior temperature of the cabinet to comfortable levels. The design is scalable and modular, providing three heights. A flexible pan handling system accommodates three styles of pan racks, and the company offers a choice of three interchangeable heat modules (hot holding, proofing, and combination proofing and holding).
Key Players from InterMetro Industries: Jim Kilgallon, cabinet segment manager; Dave Barsigian, project manager; Jeff Olson, manager of industrial design; Bill Sickles, senior developmental engineer; Tim Baker, manufacturing engineer (polymer components); Mike Liberski, manufacturing engineer (fabrication and assembly); Dave McGovern, standard products engineer; Brian Cushman, product testing engineer.
Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER
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Bosch Wall Ovens from BSH Home Appliances, Huntington Beach, Calif.
The Bosch Wall Ovens are designed for busy consumers and have time-saving features such as ECOCLEAN, an exclusive two-hour, self-cleaning function, and an ultra-fast 7 minute preheat. Boasting an oven capacity of 4.7 cu. ft., the ovens are ideal for tackling any type of cooking need in the home. Features include 16 different heating options, and exclusive Genuine European Convection that equally distributes heat for even cooking results, and allows for the cooking of an entire meal all at once without the transfer of flavor or aromas. It has easy to clean glass touch controls, installs flush to cabinetry, soft curved styling, and a large see-through window.
Key players: Bosch Home Appliance design team.
Major Appliances SILVER
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The LG SteamWasher with Allergiene Cycle from LG Electronics, Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
The clothes washer is an allergen-reducing steam washing machine that is the first such appliance to be certified “asthma & allergy friendly™” by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
During the Allergiene cycle, the unit achieves a temperature above the recommended 131 DegF by the National Institute of Health to kill dust mites and remove pet dander by more than 95 percent. It works by distributing a high and even temperature of steam combined with hot water in order to dissolve and eliminate allergens.
The steam, which is produced by LG’s steam generator, is used in different cycles on the machine. The SteamWash option feeds hot steam into the top of the wash drum through a spray nozzle. The SteamFresh cycle is a 20-min. steam-only cycle that uses steam to freshen and reduce wrinkles on dry clothes.
Key players: LG Electronics appliance design team.
Major Appliances SILVER
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LG SteamDryer from LG Electronics, Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
The new LG SteamDryer features TrueSteam technology that injects steam via a pump and cartridge system into the tub. It has an extra-large 7.3 cu. ft. capacity stainless steel dryer drum, an enhanced SteamFresh cycle that freshens and deodorizes clothes in 20 min., a ReduceStatic function that neutralizes static electricity in normal loads by introducing steam prior to cycle completion, an EasyIron function that evenly moistens clothes for ironing, and a LoDecibel Quiet Operation of 58 dB.
LG’s SteamDryer features a stylish design with an intuitive electronic control panel and choice of LED or LCD display. The new steam unit is available in a variety of designer finishes, including midnight blue, wild cherry red, and white. Juror Seth Orsborn says “the bold colors are a nice departure from the sea of stainless steel appliances.”
Key players: LG Electronics appliance design team.
Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER
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LG Steam Dishwasher from LG Electronics, Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
The LG Steam Dishwasher utilizes energy-saving, performance-enhancing steam featuring an advanced design with fully integrated LCD control panels for an ultra-premium style. Steam cleaning allows for thorough cleaning of baked-on foods while using less water than other power options and traditional models while enhancing cleaning performance on fine china and stemware. Its Steam Delicate cycle gently, yet thoroughly, cleans the fragile items. The dishwasher also features a third rack, and can accommodate up to 14 place settings in a single load. At only 45 db, this dishwasher, which has a built-in food disposal, is among the quietest available in the U.S.
Key players: LG Electronics appliance design team.
Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER
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Thermador Drawer Hood Ventilation from BSH Home Appliances, Huntington Beach, Calif.
The Thermador chimney-style Drawer Hood ventilation system is distinguished by a squared canopy that slides out and extends up to an extra 12 in. for 45 percent more coverage of the cooking area. This increase in filter area removes odors and grease at up to 600 CFM. It gives consumers greater flexibility and control over their ventilation needs. For example, if using the front, or rear burners, on a range or cooktop, the hood can be slid to the exact location where it is needed. Available in a 36 in. size, which complements the brand’s cooktops and ranges, Thermador’s Drawer Hood features a touch control panel that is engaged with a push of the button.
Key players: Thermador design team.
Major Appliances/HVAC SILVERMajor Appliances/HVAC SILVER
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Whirlpool Duet® Steam Washer (Aspen) from Whirlpool
The Whirlpool Duet Steam Washer offers a high-capacity drum, steam technology, and sanitary cycle that streamlines the end-to-end laundry process. Jim Doan, Whirlpool Fabric Care Design, says that from a design perspective, the sparkling Aspen Green color scheme and “water drop” surfacing embodies a visual metaphor of “clean” and “fresh.” The washer’s sanitary cycle heats wash water to 153 DegF. Built to minimize water and energy usage, the washer uses 67 percent less water and 77 percent less energy as compared to conventional washers. The Duet Steam washer is Energy Star certified.
Key Players: The Whirlpool Brand Studio team at Global Consumer Design, Whirlpool Corp.
Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER
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The E Series Built-In 30 in. Unframed Double Oven by Wolf Appliance Co., Fitchburg, Wis., and industrial design firm Cesaroni Design Associates Inc., Glenview, Ill.
Sleek and contemporary in appearance, the Wolf E Series Built-In Unframed Double Oven is designed with the classic stainless steel finish. The unframed door style accommodates either a built-in application or a flush inset installation. The built-in application allows the oven trim to overlap the cabinet face, while a flush inset installation permits the front of the oven to be on the same plane as surrounding cabinetry for a more integrated look. Brilliant halogen lights illuminate the interior. A full-extension bottom rack glides all the way out and nestles on the door rails, making it easier to safely reach food in a hot oven.
Key project players from Wolf Appliance Co.: Doug Swank, v.p. engineering; Greg Martin, sr. project engineer; and, Brian Hertzberg, design engineer; Cesaroni Design Associates Inc.: Bill Cesaroni, president; Curt Cruver, design director; and, Chris Kulujian, project manager.
Outdoor/Leisure Appliances SILVER
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Life Fitness 95T Elevation Series Treadmill from Life Fitness, Shiller Park, Ill.
The 95T Elevation Series Treadmills are commercial grade cardio machines that incorporate multimedia into the design. These treadmills are offered with three control options – the Engage, Inspire and Achieve consoles. The Engage console features a 15-in. LCD touch screen with integrated TV, the Inspire console offers a 7-in. LCD touch screen, and the Achieve console features an amber LED display. iPod Integration is standard on the Engage and Inspire consoles and makes it possible to control iPod playlists from the console or watch iPod video content. The Engage and Inspire consoles feature a USB port, which enables users and trainers to create, save and track the user’s workout progress.
Key Players from Life Fitness Industrial Design: Steve Ward, director of industrial design; Kevin Short, senior industrial designer; Raul Rudy Munoz, industrial designer; Gregory Topel, program management; Jack Hough, brand manager.
Outdoor/Leisure Appliances SILVER
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Life Fitness 95X Elevation Series Cross-Trainer from Life Fitness, Shiller Park, Ill.
Offering many of the same console options as the 95T, the 95Z cross trainer features a patented mechanism that provides a quiet and natural feeling. A longer stride length and proper ellipse orientation helps make the foot path feel smooth and comfortable, and mimics the joint trajectories and range of motion seen in jogging. It features the Lifepulse digital heart rate monitoring system, including contact hand sensors, which provide heart rate monitoring with exacting precision. Mechanically, the 95X has needle roller bearings at each joint, which increases the reliability of the product and provides a quieter ride and a smoother feel. The use of a hybrid generator brake allows the cross trainer to achieve a top level resistance of 900 W.
Key Players from Life Fitness Industrial Design: Steve Ward, director of industrial design; Paul Taylor, lead industrial designer; Kevin Short, senior industrial designer; Raul Rudy Munoz, industrial designer; Ken Kaufhold, program management, Jamie Burger, brand manager.
Small Appliances SILVER
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The RIZO Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer from Zojirushi America Corp., Gardena, Calif.
These rice cookers combine a minimalist look with one-touch functionality, without sacrificing any of the versatility or quality of other rice cookers. The RIZO offers three one-touch cook settings: steam cook, rice/sushi, and risotto.
According to Zojirushi, the RIZO is much different than other rice cookers available today, most of which tend to be multi-functional. With this model, in both design and function, the company decided to return to a rice cooker’s origins, making it easy to use.
The RIZO has a round shape with a stylish ridge where the control buttons are placed. The RIZO also comes in three different colors, polished stainless, yellow, and white. The yellow RIZO was inspired by the color of saffron risotto, the white color is the image of white rice.
Key Players: Toshiyuki Kita, designer.
Twenty First Annual EID -- BRONZE
Business Machines BRONZE
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Fellowes Galaxy-E Binder from Fellowes Ltd., Hallow, U.K, and its industrial design firm Product Development Technologies, Inc., Great Milton, U.K.
The Fellowes Galaxy Binder boasts fresh, aesthetic design and innovation, that communicates a purposeful, premium look. It uses an advanced internal chassis system that is driven by a high-quality gearbox motor system. The ability to adjust critical operational settings makes the machine more ergonomic to the end user. All areas for human interaction, such as handles, controls and pull-out trays are clearly defined and accessible and operable with minimum effort and confusion.
Key players from Fellowes: Kester Rudd. Product Development Technologies: Chris Parratt, Terry Gander and Angus Davidson, industrial designers.
Commercial/Vending Appliances BRONZE
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The thermaline Boiling and Braising pans from Electrolux Professional, Pordenone, Italy.
Designed for busy kitchens, the thermaline Boiling and Braising Pans have a new control panel with intuitive icons and big digit display that makes it comprehensible at first sight and permits operators to work in absolute comfort. The thermaline Pressure Braising Pan is a multifunctional appliance that can be used either as a boiling pan when the temperature is under 110 DegC, or as a fry top and a braising pan when the temperature exceeds 110 DegC. The precision in the temperature measurement guarantees perfect cooking results for big quantities of food and ensures energy savings.
Key players from Electrolux Professional: Michele Cadamuro; industrial design manager; Davide Benvenuti, industrial designer; Andreas Christen, R&D manager.
Commercial/Vending Appliances BRONZE
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Incogneeto Model induction buffet from CookTek, Chicago, Ill.
The Incogneeto is the industry’s first general-purpose, under-Granite buffet system. This induction-based design heats only the chafing dish, not the granite or the environment. A track-mountable system eases installation and removal of the unit and allows the user to configure the buffet by sliding the units from side to side. RFID temperature measurement technology is used to transmit the temperature of the pan through the granite, creating a closed-loop control system that allows precise temperature maintenance of the food in the serving dish. Finally, a locator system in a trivet-like device lets the user know where the buffet unit is located.
Key players from CookTek: Warren Graber, vice president, engineering; Rob Visher, embedded controls designer; Sam Kessler, mechanical designer; Reinhard Metz, chief technologist; Shawn Buchanan and Jeff Kantarek, electrical engineers.
Electronics BRONZE
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SQU.ID SQ.200 voice-activated translation device from Voxtec International Inc., Annapolis, Md., and its industrial design firm Helix Design, Manchester, N.H.
The SQU.ID SQ.200 is a voice-activated language translation device that has been encased in a soft, elastomeric package. Designed to be securely worn on the user’s chest within a device holster, the SQU.ID offers hands-free, eyes-free language translation capabilities. The SQU.ID uses voice-recognition software to immediately identify the English phrase the user has spoken and broadcasts the foreign language translation.
Key players from Voxtec International Inc.: John Hall, CEO; Ace Sarich-Voxtec, inventor of the Phraselator; Mike Abbott, director of manufacturing. Helix Design: Joe Schappler, principal; A.K. Stratton, project leader; Roy Whitson, project leader; Fernando Robert, designer; Chris Weiler, senior engineer.
Major Appliances/HVAC BRONZE
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KitchenAid® Architect® Series II built-in refrigerator from Whirlpool.
The KitchenAid Architect Series II built-in refrigerator is an Energy Star rated refrigerator with the ExtendFresh™ Temperature Management System that ensures ingredients remain fresh. A fully integrated ice and water dispenser is located on the door and is operated with a simple, four-button LCD display. According to Kevin Gilboe, KitchenAid Brand Studio Manager, the design team wrestled with the temptation to over-feature the touch-glass user interface, but chose a simple and efficient design to minimize interface clutter and enhance usability. The buttons are “Ice,” “Light,” “Lock,” and “Filter.” Filtered water is delivered to the fully-integrated dispenser by the AquaSense™ Base-Grille Filtration System.
Key players: The KitchenAid Brand Studio team at Global Consumer Design, Whirlpool Corp.
Major Appliances/HVAC BRONZE
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The Panorama French-Door refrigerator from LG Electronics
LG’s Panorama French-Door Refrigerator with Tallest Dispenser features a dispenser area that measures nearly a foot tall and will accommodate extra-tall bottles, large pitchers and coffee-pots. It features a white LCD display and stainless steel finish. The refrigerator also incorporates LG’s SpacePlus Ice System in the door. An additional feature is the unique auto-closing door feature, in which the doors close automatically, assisted by hydraulic hinges, after the door is at a 40-Deg angle.
Key players: LG Digital Appliance Design Team.
Major Appliances/HVAC BRONZE
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Maytag® EpicZ™ Washer – Arctic Blue from Whirlpool, Benton Harbor, Mich.
The Maytag EpicZ front-load washer has 3.7 cu. ft. of capacity and a CEE Tier III Energy Rating. Its Rainfall Clean™ wash system scoops up water and thoroughly showers it onto fabrics for optimum saturation and cleaning performance. Arctic Blue, a new color introduced along with EpicZ, communicates a sense of heft and ruggedness while complementing the Maytag customer’s home décor, the company says.
Key players: The Maytag Brand Studio team at Global Consumer Design, Whirlpool Corp.
Medical/Test & Measurement Equipment BRONZE
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Authentix SVX1000 Selective Verifier from Authentix, Addison, Texas.
The SVX1000 Selective Verifier is a tool used to fight industrial counterfeiting and to help preserve brand and product integrity. The SVX1000 is a handheld testing device that helps safeguard prescription pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer goods by authenticating on-package or on-surface covert security markers. A one-button system, a user presses this button to take a measurement. Powered by Lithium polymer batteries, the SVX1000 also has a USB charging system.
Key players from Authentix: Chester Wildey, principal engineer; Kristi Browne, director, global operations; Pradip Mehta, instrumentation engineer; John Blackburn, senior engineer; Pat Kindell, technical consultant; Marc Daigle, creative director; Jeremy Horvath, senior electronics technician; Lynn Parker, PlasPro, Inc., freelance mechanical engineer.
Medical/Test & Measurement Equipment BRONZE
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The Optima MAX-XP Ultracentrifuge from Beckman Coulter Inc., Fullerton, Calif.
The Optima MAX-XP benchtop ultracentrifuge is used in research laboratories for separations in protein, cellular and genetic analysis. The instrument delivers fast run times of up to 150,000 RPM and produces only half the sound power of similar benchtop models. There is a full color, touch screen display with a simple, easy to understand user interface. Ergonomics have been improved with an easy to open door and a front-mounted control.
Key players from Beckman Coulter: Ron Johnson, manager, industrial design; Karen Lang and Alex Garcia, senior industrial designers; Brad Carstens, staff mechanical engineer; Tim Evans, manager, hardware engineering; Bob Indig, program manager; GianCarlo Ermoli, senior mechanical engineer; Jeffrey Marque, senior staff advanced research scientist; Paul Voelker, product manager; Margie Rogers, manager strategic marketing; Steve Frye, staff software development engineer; Carl Menache, senior software development engineer.
Outdoor/Leisure Appliances BRONZE
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Remington Cordless PowerMower from Desa LLC, Bowling Green, Ky.
The Remington Cordless PowerMower is the first and only mower that provides the choice of power sources and performance level. The PowerMower operates cordless for up to 60 min. of run time and its 60 V battery can recharge in 10 hours or less. With Remington’s PowerSelect Technology, it can be plugged in to tackle larger jobs or to get the extra suction needed to clean up yard debris and leaves. It also has a “Boost” option to achieve blade tip speeds equivalent to gas mowers. It is a mulching mower with bagging and side discharge options and features a 17 in. cutting blade with a high-impact, polypropylene chassis.
Key players from Desa LLC: Del Lucs, engineering manager; Scott Kippes, marketing manager; Bruno Griffin, senior buyer; John Robbins, test engineer; Meranda Stull, senior drafter; Todd Matthews, director of engineering services; Wayne Hensel, quality assurance manager. Smartshape Design Corp.: Cherry Bochmann. NuPro Design Ltd.: Rick Nuchols. DM Penfold, LLC: Justin Lucas and Ryan Lucas. John Weed, consultant.
Small Appliances BRONZE
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Ridgid Max Select Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner from Emerson Tool Co., St. Louis, Mo.
The Ridgid Max Select Cordless Vac is a heavy-duty, portable vacuum for professionals and do-it-yourselfers. The vacuum is designed to accept and operate on either the Ridgid 24 V Lithium Ion battery or the Ridgid 18V NiCd battery, interchangeably on the same battery interface. The battery interface can also be adapted to future battery technologies with minimum tooling changes. The Ridgid Max Select Cordless vac is also eco-friendly. All of the major components of the Cordless Vac are marked as recyclable. All fasteners are free of cadmium, as well as hexavalent chromium, which can be harmful to the environment.
Key players from Emerson Tool Co.: Bob Hollis, senior project engineer; Shane Glasgow, industrial designer.
Small Appliances BRONZE
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Remington Clean XChange electric shaver from Beyond Design Inc., Chicago, Ill., and Spectrum Brands, Madison, Wis.
Remington’s Clean XChange is the first-ever disposable-head, electric shaver. Hair collects in the shaving head and when the cartridge is full, an LED light flashes indicating a new shaving head is needed. The length of time before the shaving head needs to be replaced depends on the length of the beard. With a heavier beard, the shaving head usually needs to be changed in about a month; with a lighter beard, it can last two months or longer. The Remington Clean XChange uses hygienic nanosilver coated foil that keeps bacteria from growing on the blades, and is proven to reduce redness and irritation. The product was designed to fit tightly around the internal mechanisms in the body of the shaver. The amount of material in the disposable head was reduced in order to keep it cost effective, while still providing a good shave.
Key players: The design team from Beyond Design Inc.
Meet the Judges
James H. Bleck is the founder and president of Bleck Design Group, an award-winning Boston-area industrial design, engineering and product development firm based in North Chelmsford, Mass. Prior to founding Bleck Design Group in 1982, his experience included senior design positions with Latham/Brefka and Digital Equipment Corp.
Bleck Design Group has earned more than 25 design awards from Appliance Design magazine, Canon Communications, I.D. Magazine, IDSA/BusinessWeek, Structural Plastics, The Chicago Athenaeum, and The International Consumer Electronics Show; including two “Design of the Decade” awards from IDSA/BusinessWeek for the AVC Electronic Voting Machine and Polycom Soundstation.
Bleck is the current chairman and a co-founder of the Merrimack Valley Venture Forum. He has served as a juror for IDSA/Business Week International Design Excellence Award and Consumer Electronics Show Innovation Award competitions. He has been an IDSA member since 1977. He has written and contributed to design articles for Design News, Medical Design Technology, Medical Product Manufacturing News, and Moldmaking Technology. He is a frequent speaker on product design to business and academic audiences.
He received his BFA in Industrial Design from the University of Illinois in 1976, and completed graduate studies in management at Northeastern University (Boston).
Email: info@bleckdesigngroup.com
Web: www.bleckdesigngroup.com
Rich Buttiglieri is a Usability Consultant at the Design and Usability Center at Bentley College, Waltham, Mass., with more than 20 years of experience in product design and evaluation. He has considerable experience conducting user-centered design studies of software, consumer electronics and medical products for mass markets, as well as highly specialized vertical markets. Before joining Bentley in 2003, Buttiglieri designed and evaluated both web-based applications as well as desktop applications working for companies such as Digital, BBN, HP, Lotus, Concord Communications and MarketSoft.
For the past several years, Buttiglieri has been a judge for two prestigious product design competitions: Innovations at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the User-Centered Product Design Award sponsored by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES). He has judged a wide range of products, including digital imaging, mobile and vehicle electronics, home networking, medical devices, and home theater.
Buttiglieri holds a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Lowell and a Graduate Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He is a member of the Usability Professionals’ Association, HFES Product Design Technical Group, the UPA Boston, and BostonCHI.
Email: rbuttiglieri@bentley.edu
Web: www.bentley.edu/usability
Seth Orsborn is an assistant professor in the Department of Interdisciplinary Engineering at the Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, Mo. Orsborn has a keen interest in the relationship between mechanical and aesthetic design in product development that developed from a diverse background in mechanics and the arts. He has worked for, and consulted with, a variety of companies regarding new product development and the impact of aesthetic design. Orsborn teaches engineering design and product development at Missouri S&T and is a practicing freelance graphic artist. He also directs the Qualitative Design Research Group at Missouri S&T, which focuses on the boundary between engineering design and industrial design in the product design process.
Orsborn’s research has been published in refereed journals and presented at national and international conferences. In addition to studying painting and other arts, he received his Bachelor of Science in 2003 from the University at Buffalo (State University of New York), his Master of Science in 2005 and Doctor of Philosophy in 2007 from Carnegie Mellon University. All of his degrees are in mechanical engineering. Orsborn is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Industrial Designers Society of America.
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